Diadumenian son of Macrinus
Diadumenian, full name Marcus Opellius Antoninus Diadumenianus, was a Roman citizen who served briefly as the empire's Caesar for only a short period, beginning in May in the year 217 AD up to his deposition in the year 218 AD. He was in fact the son of the then Roman Emperor Macrinus and probably received this position by virtue of his father's influence.
In any case, as short as Diadumenian's rule over the empire was, he had very little opportunity to enjoy his status or to reap its considerable benefits. This was due largely to the rebellion headed by the legions at Syria who wished to install Elagabalus as their chosen leader. This short-lived reign is primarily the reason why relatively little is known about the years of Rome under Diadumenian's rule.
Macrinus met his untimely end at Antioch on June 8th, 218, and Diadumenian's own death was not long in following. During his short reign, Diadumenian managed to cultivate a reputation as a fearsome tyrant and his cruelty is thought by many to have nearly equaled that of his father's. These incidents were detailed thoroughly in Scriptores Historiae Augustae. Upon his death in the year 218 AD, his head was severed and presented to the new emperor, Elagabalus.
Original Authors: Doods Pangburn
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 22/07/2008
